Q: May I please ask your advice on two matters with regards to Zakaat.
a) My wives uncle recently had both his legs amputated. He is an elderly 78 year old man with two unmarried daughters (both working) and a son. He has a house. They are living from hand to mouth and come from the poor community. Am I allowed to use my zakaat funds to purchase needy medical equipment that he requires, like a hospital bed, a wheelchair etc?
b) In our community there is a lady who has also had both her legs amputated. She lives in a small backyard room. No income. Are we allowed to assist her in settling some monthly accounts like electricity, food, groceries etc with our zakaat funds?
A:
1. He can use zakaat to help him.
2. Yes.
And Allah Ta’ala (الله تعالى) knows best.
Answered by:
Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)